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Heaven's Command

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( 864 ratings, 95 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Heaven's Command by Jan Morris explores the rise of the British Empire during the 19th century. It's a detailed and vivid account of the expansion and influence of British imperialism across the globe, combining historical facts with compelling storytelling.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you appreciate a vivid, narrative history of the British Empire, blended with rich storytelling and insightful analysis. It provides a compelling look at the Empire's rise and its far-reaching impact across the world.

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First in Jan Morris's classic Pax Britannica Trilogy.

Heaven's Command: An Imperial Progress is the first instalment in Jan Morris's classic Empire Trilogy. It vividly portrays the rise of Queen Victoria and the British Empire, their journey across the globe and their search for Imperial progress.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Heaven's Command by Jan Morris offers a sweeping narrative that charts the remarkable saga of the British Empire, from the early days of Queen Victoria's reign in 1837 to the zenith of her power at her Diamond Jubilee in 1897. This first volume of the critically acclaimed "Pax Britannica" trilogy expertly captures the essence of Britain's imperial ambitions and the profound influence they exerted across the globe.

With her masterful prose, Jan Morris delves into the myriad facets of the British Empire's rise to prominence. The narrative vividly brings to life the bustling shipyards, the meticulously curated botanical gardens, the remote hill stations, and the sprawling sugar plantations. Morris's portrayal is rich and textured, illustrating not only the physical and cultural transformations wrought by empire but also the complex socio-political dynamics at play.

Morris's exploration is both broad and intimate, traversing the diverse landscapes and societies impacted by British imperialism. From the vibrant coasts of Sierra Leone to the idyllic islands of Fiji, from the contested lands of Zululand to the vast expanses of the Canadian prairies, each locale is meticulously detailed, emphasising the far-reaching tentacles of empire.

By weaving together personal anecdotes, historical events, and colourful descriptions, Morris crafts a narrative that is as engaging as it is enlightening. Her subtle yet incisive analysis of the consequences of imperial expansion provides a nuanced understanding of this pivotal era in world history.

Heaven's Command is more than just a historical account; it is an evocative portrayal of a world in transformation, a testament to the enduring legacy of imperialism, and a reminder of the complex interplay between power, culture, and society. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a casual reader, Jan Morris's magnum opus is an indispensable addition to your collection, offering profound insights into the making of the modern world.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Heaven's Command by Jan Morris has been praised for its engaging writing style and vivid portrayal of the British Empire's history. Reviewers commend Morris's ability to blend historical detail with insightful commentary, making it a compelling read for those interested in history and military affairs. The book is noted for being both informative and entertaining, capturing the complex nature of the empire's influence.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780571290697

Publisher: Faber & Faber

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 04 October 2012

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Faber & Faber

Edition: Main

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 35.0mm

Width: 126.0mm

Height: 197.0mm

Weight: 422g

Pages: 560

About the Author

Jan Morris was born in Somerset in 1926 and received her B.A. in 1951 and her M.A. in 1961, both from Christ Church, Oxford. Dubbed the 'Flaubert of the jet age' by Alistair Cooke, and 'perhaps the best descriptive writer of our time' by Rebecca West, Jan Morris has written studies of Venice, Oxford, Manhattan, Sydney, Hong Kong, Spain and Wales. She is the author of the Pax Britannica trilogy about the British Empire, two autobiographical books, six volumes of collected travel essays and a novel.

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